Making the most of your garden, whether it is for your own use or with selling in mind…
Clean up
Wash your patio or decking area and declutter. Sell or upcycle your old furniture and spend some time choosing your new theme – country style or urban chic?
Versatility
Make your space as multifunctional as possible. It could transform from a children’s play area to a BBQ party space or an intimate dinner setting, if you choose your furniture and lighting wisely.
Are you sitting comfortably?
If you can, try out furniture before you buy, as hopefully you will be sitting in it a lot.
Don’t forget to buy side tables if you choose sofa style seating – you will need somewhere to put your cocktail! Co-ordinating cushions and a weatherproof outdoor rug gives the feel of an outdoor living room.
Planting
Choose complementary pots and plant some fragrant herbs such as lavender and mint, scented roses, jasmine or gardenias to evoke a calming atmosphere. You can hang plants on fences and walls if you are short of space, to create a garden feel even in the smallest of courtyards.
On reflection
Cleverly placed mirrors can deceive to make a small garden look larger or suggest a hidden ‘secret’ garden beyond….
Privacy
Put up bamboo sheeting or willow screens to give privacy to your garden, especially around your entertaining and dining space, or your favourite spot for sunbathing.
In a good light
Use a mix of mains and solar powered, lanterns, fairy lights and candles to suit your mood.
All year round
The addition of a fire pit, chiminea or patio heaters will extend the time you can enjoy your outside space. Consider artificial turf for year-round use. Also consider a canopy or awning to offer cover or shade.
Whether for your own use or to add saleability to your home, your outdoor space can be transformed into an extra living room and make the perfect oasis, taking the indoors outdoors.
Your outside space needs to either suit your needs or to make your home attractive to potential purchasers if you are marketing.
